Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2010 Jul;53(7):399-407. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2010.53.7.399.

Na+ Homeostasis in the Inner Ear

• Kim SH
• Kim SC

• KMID: 2037225
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2010.53.7.399

Abstract

Na+ homeostasis in the inner ear is important to maintain normal hearing and balance. Na+ transport in the inner ear is reported to be occurred in non-sensory epithelium of inner ear which forms a barrier between endolymphatic space and perilymphatic space. Functionally identified and constitutively active Na+ absorption sites in the inner ear are Reissner's membrane, outer sulcus cells, vestibular transitional cells, saccular nonsensory epithelial cells, and endolymphatic sac epithelial cells. Na+ transport in these epithelial cells is mediated by apically located epithelial Na+ channels (ENaC), nonselective cation channels and basolaterally located Na+, K+-ATPase. Na+ absorption is increased by glucocorticoid through glucocorticoid receptor or ATP through purinergic receptors depending on cell types.

Keyword

Sodium; Homeostasis; Inner ear; Cochlear; Vestibule; Endolymphatic sac

MeSH Terms

Absorption
Adenosine Triphosphate
Ear, Inner
Endolymphatic Sac
Epithelial Cells
Epithelium
Hearing
Homeostasis
Membranes
Receptors, Glucocorticoid
Receptors, Purinergic
Sodium
Adenosine Triphosphate
Receptors, Glucocorticoid
Receptors, Purinergic
Sodium